A Malaysian’s question over fresh graduates seeking RM4,000 salaries has sparked debate on wages, rising living costs, skills and hiring practices.
WITH the minimum wage increased to RM1,700 from Aug 1, 2025, fresh graduates are generally expected to earn between RM2,500 and RM3,500, depending on the industry and location.
However, reports have highlighted a mismatch between fresh graduates’ salary expectations and employers’ offers, with some graduates receiving salaries that do not reflect their qualifications, while others argue that higher starting pay is necessary to keep pace with the rising cost of living.
Recently, a Malaysian man questioned why some fresh graduates expect salaries of up to RM4,000 despite lacking the experience or skills to justify such demands.
“Why do so many fresh graduates today expect a RM4,000 salary but struggle to handle even basic tasks when they’re asked to do them?
“What’s the real issue?” Threads user @hanif.hanz.16 wrote.
As the post gained traction, netizens were divided over whether such salary expectations were justified. Some argued that fresh graduates should not expect such high starting salaries, while others believed they deserved a decent income to cope with the rising cost of living.
“The answer is the cost of living. Inflation has been rising quickly, but wage growth in our country has remained largely stagnant. Just imagine: the median salary in Malaysia is around RM2,500. What can you really do with RM2,500 these days? Fresh graduates should be earning at least RM3,000 to RM4,000,” one user commented.
Another user said both rising living costs and employers’ concerns over graduates’ capabilities could be valid at the same time.
“The cost of living is indeed putting pressure on people. At the same time, the minimum requirements and skill levels of some fresh graduates may not always match the salaries they are demanding. Both can be true,” the user wrote.
Another issue raised during the online discussion was employers’ reluctance to hire fresh graduates, with many insisting that applicants have two to three years of prior experience.
One user argued that this expectation, coupled with the perception that fresh graduates are demanding RM4,000 salaries, has contributed to unfair stereotypes about those entering the workforce.
As the debate continues, many believe there must be a balance between realistic salary expectations, opportunities for skills development, and employers’ willingness to invest in new talent.
